Gov. Markell issues State of Emergency in Delaware with level 1 driving warning

“We strongly encourage drivers who do not need to travel to delay or refrain from being on the road,” said Gov. Jack Markell in a press release at 2 p.m. today. "Conditions have deteriorated, and it is safer not to drive if you don't have to."

With a severe winter storm generating significant snowfall throughout Delaware, Gov. Jack Markell has declared a State of Emergency that includes a statewide "Level 1 Driving Warning," effective as of 2 p.m. today.

According to state law, a "Level 1 Driving Warning" means that any person operating a motor vehicle when a Level 1 Driving Warning has been activated shall exercise extra caution in the operation of their motor vehicle. Nonessential employees, regardless of whether employed by a public or private entity, are encouraged not to operate a motor vehicle on the State's roadways when a Level 1 Driving Warning has been activated, unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so.

"We strongly encourage drivers who do not need to travel to delay or refrain from being on the road," said Markell in a press release. "Conditions have deteriorated, and it is safer not to drive if you don't have to. DelDOT crews are continuing to work on clearing roads and we will continue to evaluate conditions."

In addition to instituting a Level 1 Driving Warning, the State of Emergency declaration:

· Directs state agencies to assist in response activities, as directed by the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA).

· Authorizes the Delaware National Guard to assist local authorities with any "precautionary or responsive actions," if so directed by the DEMA Director in consultation with the Secretary of Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS).

· Authorizes DelDOT and the State Police, in consultation with DEMA and DSHS, to order road and bridge closures if necessary to protect the health and safety of the public.

DART has made service changes because of the weather, in its updated schedule.